A device has a spool rotatable about an axis in a reel, and a braking structure that effects a braking force against rotation of the spool, the braking force being adjustable by changing a proximity of the braking structure relative to the spool. The device includes at least one tap in a fixed relationship with respect to the braking structure, and a brake dial accessible outside the reel and providing a threaded portion that accepts the at least one tap, the brake dial being rotatable to change the proximity of the braking structure relative to the spool by movement of the tap.